Events Listings

THURSDAY, MAY 7 

Berkeley Democratic Club with Assembymember Nancy Skinner on the state of the State, and the League of Woman Voters presents the propositions for the May 19th Special Statewide Election, at 7 p.m. at the Northbrae Community Church, 941 The Alameda.  

SalmonAID Festival with music, dancing and information about the salmon at 7:30 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $25. 849-2568.  

Create Your Own Micro-Farm with a self-watering container. Learn how from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Oakland Housing Authority Community Room, 935 Union St., West Oakland on the corner of 10th St. Sponsored by Urban ROOTS. To reserve a spot, please call 655-1304. 

“Inquiries into the Nature of Slow Money” with author Woody Tasch on his view of the world of capital markets and sustainability at 7 p.m. at the Ecology Center, 2530 San Pablo Ave. 548-3402. 

Project YouthView: The Power of Youth in Film Festival of winning bay area local youth film shorts, plus the documentary “Trouble the Water” at 6 p.m. at Historic Theatre of the Alameda Theater & Cineplex, 317 Central Avenue, Alameda. Sponsored by Alternatives in Action. Tickets are $5-$8, $100 for VIP section. 748-4314, ext. 304. www.projectyouthview.org 

“Reptiles and Amphibians” with Paul Hamilton as part of the Conservation Speaker Series at 6:30 p.m. in the Marian Zimmer Auditorium, Children’s Zoo, Oakland Zoo. Suggested donation $5-$20. 632-9525, ext. 122. 

Red Cross Blood Drive from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Laney College, ASLC Offices, 900 Fallon St., Oakland.. To schedule an appointment go to www.BeADonor.com 

Film on Washington DC indepth exploration of this multi-cultural city at 1:30 p.m. at the Albany Library, 1247 Marin Ave. 526-3720. 

Teaching English as a Second Language Learn about the Foreign Language Certification Program offered by UC Berkeley Extension, at 5:30 p.m. at 1995 University Ave. To reserve a space call 642-4111. 

“Don't Be in Pain” with Dr. Ellliott Wagner on the benefits of acupuncture in relieving neuropathic pain at 1 p.m. at the Seventh Day Adventist Church, 278 Grand Ave., Oakland. 653-8625. 

Circle of Concern Vigil meets on West Lawn of UC campus across from Addison and Oxford, Thurs. at noon and Sun. at 1 p.m. to oppose UC weapons labs contracts. 848-8055. 

Fitness Class for 55+ at 9:15 a.m. at Jewish Community Center, 1414 Walnut St. 848-0237. 

Buddhist Class on Shikan Meditation at 7 p.m. at Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalists, Cedar at Bonita, through May 28. http://caltendai.org 

FRIDAY, MAY 8 

City Commons Club Noon Luncheon with Douglas J. Long, Chief Curator, Dept. of Natural Sciences, Oakland Museum of CA on “The California Grizzly Bear in Fact and Fancy” Luncheon at 11:45 a.m. for $15, speech at 12:30 p.m., at the Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant St. For information and reservations call 527-2173.  

“What I Saw in Gaza” with Middle East Children’s Alliance Executive Director Barbara Lubin at 7 p.m. at Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalists Hall, 1924 Cedar at Bonita. Donation $5-$10. 526-2900. www.bfuu.org 

The Orchid Society of California Annual Mother’s Day Weekend Show and Sale, Fri. noon to 6 p.m., Sat. and Sun. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Lakeside Garden Center, 666 Bellevue, Oakland. Free. 582-3404. www. 

orchidsocietyofcalifornia.com 

Stockton Avenue Art Stroll Meet the artists at their studios or galleries, and have a great time exploring art along El Cerrito’s Stockton Ave. For more details, contact Well Grounded Tea & Coffee Bar, 6925 Stockton Ave. 528-4709. 

Love and Justice for Tristan & Palestine with Charming Hostess, Devin Hoff Platform, Molotov Mouths, Hillary Lehr and others at 7:30 p.m. at AK Press Warehouse, 674-A 23rd St., Oakland. Donation $7-$25. 208-1700. 

Womansong Circle “A Celebration of Mothers” An evening of participatory singing for women with guest Evelie Posch, at 7:15 p.m. at First Congregational Church, Small Assembly Room, 2345 Channing St. Suggested donation $15-20. www.betsyrosemusic.org 

Red Cross Blood Drive from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Children’s Hospital, Outpatient Center Basement, 747 52nd St.,, Oakland.. To schedule an appointment go to www.BeADonor.com 

Kamit Fest 36th Anniversary Ausar Auset Society Registration at 6:30 p.m., meditation at 7 p.m. Oakland Public Conservatory, 1616 Franklin St., Oakland. Other events throughout the day on Sat. 536-5934. 

Circle Dancing, simple folk dancing with instruction at 7:30 p.m. at Finnish Brotherhood Hall, 1970 Chestnut St at University. Donation of $5 requested. 528-4253. www.circledancing.com 

Berkeley Women in Black weekly vigil from noon to 1 p.m. at Bancroft and Telegraph. Our focus is human rights in Palestine. 548-6310. 

Berkeley Chess Club meets every Fri. at 7 p.m. at the Hillside School, 1581 Le Roy Ave. 843-0150. 

SATURDAY, MAY 9 

Berkeley Path Wanderers Walk in Claremont Heights, Grand View, and Hiller Highlands Walk the old paths behind the Claremont Hotel that once helped commuters reach the Key Route trains, and look for traces of paths that are no more. Learn about historic Smith Lane and the family that built it. Finally, explore newer paths and streets in neighborhoods rebuilt after the 1991 Oakland-Berkeley firestorm. This route has long, steep hills and stairways, some with uneven footing. Meet at 10 a.m. at Peet’s, 2912 Domingo Ave. www.berkeleypaths.org 

Golden Gate Audubon Society Field Trip to Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve Join Rusty Scalf for a morning of bird watching at our own East Bay volcano. Drive south on Grizzly Peak Blvd until it ends; turn left onto Skyline, the park entrance is located a short distance, about a quarter mile, on Skyline on the left at 6800 Skyline. Meet at parking lot at 8 a.m. www.goldengateaudubon.org 

Blessing of the Animals at 11:00 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Oakland, on the front lawn at 2619 Broadway, Oakland. Please bring pets on leashes or in carriers. 444-3555. www.firstcurchoakland.org  

Jefferson School Mayfair Games, prizes, food, performances, cakewalks, root beer floats and rockets abound at this year’s space-themed Mayfair. Come in costume and compete for prizes. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 1400 Ada St., Sacramento St.  

Edible Schoolyard Jamboree and 5th Annual Mother’s Day Plant Sale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Edible Schoolyard, Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School, 1781 Rose St. Plant sale continues on Sun. 558-1335. 

Bike Day at the Farmer’s Market from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Center St between Milvia St. and M.L.K.jr. Way. Come learn to take care of your bicycle with workshops on everything from changing a flat tire to greasing your chain. www.bfbc.org 

California Rare Fruit Growers Golden Gate Chapter with Bill Grimes, CRFG National Office President, on “Growing California Bay Area Friendly Exotic and Heirloom Fruits and Vegetables” at 1 p.m. at 2009 Berkeley Public Library, 3rd flr. Community Room, 2090 Kittredge St. www.CRFG.org 

“Opening Doors to Homes: A Walk for Affordable Housing” to raise awareness and funds for much needed affordable housing to the Bay Area from 1 to 4 p.m. at Memorial Glade, UC campus. Cost is $15-$30. Sponsored by Resources for Community Development. Register online at www.firstgiving.com/rcdhousing 

Walking Tour of Jack London Waterfront Meet at 10 a.m. at the corner of Broadway and Embarcadero. Tour lasts 90 minutes. Reservations can be made by calling 238-3234. www.oaklandnet.com/walkingtours 

“Urban Farming Basics: Grow Your Own Food” With Willow Rosenthal of City Slicker Farms from 2 to 6 p.m. at Berkeley Youth Alternatives Garden, Bancroft Way between Bonar and West St. Cost is $10-$15. 548-2220, ext. 239. 

The Orchid Society of California Annual Mother’s Day Weekend Show and Sale Sat. and Sun. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Lakeside Garden Center, 666 Bellevue, Oakland. Free. 582-3404. www.orchidsocietyofcalifornia.com 

California Lawn Bowls Day Open House from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the corner of Acton St. and Bancroft. 841-2174. 

Annie’s Annuals Mother’s Day Party with food, drinks, a clown and activities for children, and gardening information and raffle Sat. and Sun. from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 740 Market Ave. Richmond. www.anniesannuals.com 

Free Car Seat Checks Officers from the Berkeley Police Department will administer a car seat safety check on the 5th level of the Allston Way Garage, 2061 Allston Way between Milvia and Shattuck, from 10 a.m. to noon. Parking will be validated by Habitot. 647-1111.  

“Becoming America: Becoming California” Exhibition on the history of the Peralta family and the Native People with food, crafts and games, dancing and tours, from noon to 5 p.m. at Peralta Hacienda Historical Park, 2465 34th Ave., Oakland. Suggested donation $1. 532-9142. www.peraltahacienda.org/VisitUs.htm  

“Pakistan and Afghanistan: Obama’s and America’s Next Vietnam?” with speaker Conn Hallinan at 7 p.m. at the Alameda Free Library, 1550 Oak St., Alameda. Sponsored by the Alameda Public Affairs Forum Suggested donation $5, no one is turned away. 814-9592.  

Common Agenda Regional Network meeting on reordering federal priorities from the military to human and environmental needs at 2 p.m. at 1403 Addison St. at the Gray Panthers’ Office, adjacent the back entrance of the Andronico’s Grocery. 

1st Annual Rock Paper Scissors Collective Cupcake Bake-off Benefit for the Community Collaborations Donor Campaign at 2 p.m. at Rock Paper Scissors Collective, 2278 Telegraph Ave, Oakland. 238-9171. www.rpscollective.com 

Origami Flowers with Margo Wecksler from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Albany Library, 1247 Marin Ave., Albany. 526-3720. 

“Food For Thought” Comedians and speakers, including Johnny Steele, Kamau Bell, Richard Stockton and Carmen Tedesco of Slow Food San Francisco in a benefit for the Alameda County Food Bank at 8 p.m. at the Julia Morgan Theater, 2460 College Ave. Tickets are $15. Advance tickets can be purchased online at www.juliamorgan.org 

“The African Presence in Mexico: From Yanga to the Present” Community opening of the exhibition from noon to 4 p.m. at the Oakland Museum of California, 10th and Oak sts. Cost is $5-$8. www.museumca.org/tickets 

“Update from Haiti” with Seth Donnelly on the electoral climate in Haiti at 3 p.m. at Niebyl Proctor Library, 6501 Telegraph Ave., Oakland. www.haitisolidarity.net 

Kensington Library Spring Book Sale Sat. from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sun. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Community Center, 59 Arlington Ave, Kensington, up the road by the library. 524-3043. 

Jitter-Bug Hunt Fun for the whole family trying to catch these bugs, at 2 p.m. at Tilden Nature Center, Tilden Park. 544-3265. tnarea@ebparks.org 

Mad Hatter Tea Party and White Rabbit Adoption Fair from 1 to 4 p.m. at RabbitEARS, 377 Colusa Ave., Kensington. 525-6155. 

Kids Go Green: Protecting Chabot’s Redwood Ecosystem from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the redwood forest surrounding Cahabot Space and Science Center, 10000 Skyline Blvd., Oakland. Cost is $10.95-$14.95. 336-7373. 

Preschool Storytime, including crafts and finger plays at 11 a.m. at The Albany Library, 1247 Marin Ave., Albany. 526-3720 ext. 16. 

Free Garden Tours at Regional Parks Botanic Garden Sat. and Sun. at 2 pm. Regional Parks Botanic Garden, Tilden Park. Call to confirm. 841-8732.  

Car Wash Benefit for Options Recovery Services of Berkeley, held every Sat. from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Lutheran Church, 1744 University Ave. 666-9552. 

SUNDAY, MAY 10 

Grand Opening of the David Brower Center Tour the Center, celebrate the planet, and explore environmental and social issues of our time, from 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. at 2150 Allston Way, between Oxford and Shattuck. For a complete schedule of events see www.browercenter.org 

Friends and Family Day at the Magnes Join us in the garden and museum as we reflect on memory and personal history through arts and crafts from 11 a.m. t0 3 p.m. at 2911 Russell St. www.magnes.org 

Mothers Day Stories and Songs with Doug and Todd Elliott’s cultural tour of America’s backcountry, at 11:30 a.m. at Tilden Nature Center, Tilden Park. 544-3265. tnarea@ebparks.org 

Treat Your Mother Right Join a tour of the Tilden Little Farm to meet the animal mothers, and two farm grandmothers, at 2 p.m. at Tilden Nature Center, Tilden Park. 544-3265. tnarea@ebparks.org 

Mother’s Day Peace Fair with speakers, music, refreshments from 3 to 7 p.m. at Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalists, 1924 Cedar at Bonita. Donation $5, no one turned away. 841-4824. www.uucb.org 

CodePINK: Women for Peace Pink Follies for Mothers’ Day with music, dance, comedy, spoken word at 6:45 p.m. at a La Pena, 3105 Shattuck Ave. Cost is $10. 540-7007. 

California Native Plant Society Walk Discover California native plants along the way. This loop has a 700 foot elevation gain, with many ups and downs. Round trip is about 5 miles. Meet at 10 a.m. in the Briones Reg. Park, Reliez Valley Staging Area parking lot. 223-3310. 

Welcoming the Three Sisters to the Garden Help us plant beans, squash and corn in the Childrens’ Garden and learn why they encourage eachother to grow, at 10 a.m. at Tilden Narure Area, Tilden Park. 544-3265. tnarea@ebparks.org 

Discussion of Marxist-Humanist Perspectives at 6:30 p.m. at Niebyl-Proctor Library, 6501 Telegraph Ave., Oakland. Text available at www.newsandletters.org For information call 658-1448. 

Personal Theology Seminars with Rosa Grandillo-Schwentker on “My Experience with the Toltec Shamanic Tradition” at 10 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Berkeley, 1 Lawson Rd., Kensington. 525-0302, ext. 306. 

Free Garden Tours at Regional Parks Botanic Garden in Tilden Park Sat. and Sun. at 2 p.m. Call to confirm. 841-8732. www.nativeplants.org 

Lake Merritt Neighbors Organized for Peace Peace walk around the lake every Sun. Meet at 3 p.m. at the colonnade at the NE end of the lake. 763-8712. lmno4p.org 

Tibetan Buddhism with Jack Petranker on “The Buddhist Path and the Scientific Method” at 6 p.m. at the Tibetan Nyingma Institute, 1815 Highland Pl. 809-1000. www.nyingmainstitute.com 

Sew Your Own Open Studio Come learn to use our industrial and domestic machines, or work on your own projects, from 2 to 6 p.m. at 84 Bolivar Dr., Aquatic Park. Also on Thurs. from 2 to 6 p.m. Cost is $5 per hour. 644-2577. www.watersideworkshops.org 

MONDAY, MAY 11 

Anna Head Student Housing Project Community Discussion at 7 p.m. in the All Purpose Room, Unit 1 Residence Hall. RSVP to 643-8677. Comments can be emailed to bpiatnitza@cp.berkeley.edu 

AC Transit Service Reduction Community Workshop Bus district seeks community input as it begins planning for service reductions, made necessary by looming deficit due to significant cut in state funding and other economic factors. Bus riders and the community are encouraged to attend at 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., West Berkeley Senior Center, 1900 Sixth St. 

“The Drought and Community Response” with Andy Katz, EBMUD director at 7 p.m. at Kensington Library, 61 Arlington Ave., Kensington. 524-3043. 

“Hot Technology, Cool Science” with scientists from Berkeley Lab at 7 p.m. at Berkeley Repertory Theater, 2025 Addison St. 

Dog Training Workshop: Come, Spot, Come! at 7:30 p.m. at Finnish Hall, 1970 Chestnut St. Cost is $35. 849-9323.  

El Cerrito Art Association Painting demonstration Christopher Schink, author of two books on watercolor painting, at 7:30 pm in the Garden Room of the El Cerrito Community Center, 7007 Moeser Lane. 

Community Yoga Class 10 a.m. at James Kenney Parks and Rec. Center at Virginia and 8th. Seniors and beginners welcome. Cost is $6. 207-4501. 

World Affairs/Politics Discussion Group, for people 60 years and over, meets at 9:45 a.m. at Albany Senior Center, 846 Masonic Ave, Albany. Cost is $3.  

Berkeley CopWatch organizational meeting at 8 p.m. at 2022 Blake St. 548-0425. 

Free Boatbuilding Classes for Youth from 10 a.m. to noon and 1 to 5 p.m. at Berkeley Boathouse, 84 Bolivar Dr., Aquatic Park. Classes cover woodworking, boatbuilding, and boat repair. 644-2577.  

TUESDAY, MAY 12 

Tuesdays for the Birds Tranquil bird walks in local parklands, led by Bethany Facendini, from 7 to 9:30 a.m. Today we will visit the Sibley Regional Preserve. Bring water, field guides, binoculars or scopes. Call for meeting place and if you need to borrow binoculars. 544-3265.  

Alliance for California Tradtional Arts Information session on funding opportunities for folk and traditional artisits at 6 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. 415-346-5200.  

Lawyer in the Library at 6 p.m. at the Albany Library, 1247 Marin Ave. Cosponsored by the Alameda County Bar Association. Advance registration required. 526-3720 ext. 5. 

Tuesday Tilden Walkers Join a few slowpoke seniors at 9:30 a.m. in the parking lot near the Little Farm for an hour or two walk. 215-7672, 524-9992. 

End the Occupation Vigil every Tues. at noon at Oakland Federal Bldg., 1301 Clay St. www.epicalc.org 

Berkeley Camera Club meets at 7:30 p.m., at the Northbrae Community Church, 941 The Alameda. 548-3991.  

St. John’s Prime Timers meets at 9:30 a.m. at St. John’s Presbyterian Church, 2727 College Ave. We always welcome new members over 50. 845-6830. 

Bridge for beginners from 12:30 to 2:15 p.m., all others 12:30 to 4 p.m. Sing-A-Long at 2:30 p.m. at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-5190. 

WEDNESDAY, MAY 13 

Berkeley Housing Element Community Meeting To review the inventory of properties identified for possible future residential development at 7 p.m. at North Berkeley Senior Center, 1901 Hearst. 981-7416. 

Walking Tour of Old Oakland around Preservation Park to see Victorian architecture. Meet at 10 a.m. in front of Preservation Park at 13th St. and MLK, Jr. Way. Tour lasts 90 minutes. Reservations can be made by calling 238-3234. 

“Longing and Belonging: Parents, Children and Consumer Culture” with Allison Pugh, Asst. Prof. Dept of Sociology, Univ. of Virginia, at 7 p.m. at North Oakland Community Charter School, 1000 42nd St., Oakland. 655-0540. 

“Paws to Read” Help your child practice reading with a friendly dog at 2:45 and at 3:20 p.m. at the Albany Library, 1247 Marin Ave., Albany. Dogs and handlers are from Therapy Pets volunteering for Paws to Read. Children in grades 1-5 may sign up for 25 minute sessions with tested therapy pets. To reserve a session call 526-3720, ext. 5.  

“The Century of the Self—Episode Two: Happiness Machines” by Adam Curtis at 7:30 p.m. at Humanist Hall, 390 27th St., uptown Oakland, between Telegraph and Broadway. Donation $5. www.HumanistHall.org 

Free Screening of “Reds“ as part of the Radical Film Nite with free popcorn and post-film discussion, at 8 p.m. at the Long Haul Infoshop, 3124 Shattuck Ave. 540-0751. www.thelonghaul.org 

Cycling: Improving Your Performance for Fun, Fitness, or Competition with Curtis Cramblett at 7 p.m. at REI, 1338 San Pablo Ave. 527-4140. 

Confused by Computers? Novice computer users can get one-on-one assistance from noon to 1:45 p.m. at the Albany Library, 1247 Marin Ave., Albany. Sign up for an appointment at the reference desk or call 526-3720 ext. 5. 

Walk Berkeley for Seniors meets every Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. at the Sea Breeze Market, just west of the I-80 overpass. Everyone is welcome, wear comfortable shoes and a warm hat. 548-9840. 

Theraputic Recreation at the Berkeley Warm Pool, Wed. at 3:30 p.m. and Sat. at 10 a.m. at the Berkeley Warm Pool, 2245 Milvia St. Cost is $4-$5. Bring a towel. 632-9369. 

Berkeley Peace Walk and Vigil at the Berkeley BART Station, corner of Shattuck and Center. Sing for Peace at 6:30 p.m. followed by Peace Walk at 7 p.m. www.geocities.com/vigil4peace/vigil 

Teen Chess Club from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the North Branch Library, 1170 The Alameda at Hopkins. 981-6133. 

Berkeley CopWatch Drop-in office hours from 6 to 8 p.m. at 2022 Blake St. 548-0425. 

THURSDAY, MAY 14 

Bike to Work or School Day Celebrate bicycling as a healthy, fun, and economical form of transportation. For more event details and locations of energizer stations see bicycling.511.org 

“Richmond Riviera” Walk for Age 50+ Discover birds, parks, and WWII history along Richmond’s Bay shore on a level, paved, wheelchair-accessible walk. Meet at 9 a.m. at Shimada Friendship Park, S. end of Marina Bay Parkway, Richmond. Free but numbers limited; register at Albany Senior Center, 846 Masonic Ave., 524-9122, or Albany Community Center, 1249 Marin, 524-9283. 

Book Bingo In celebration of Children’s Book Week, for ages 5 and up, at 3:30 p.m. at the Kendington library, 61 Arlington Ave., Kensington. 524-3043.  

East Bay Mac Users Group Meeting learn about iLife 09- iMovie & iWeb at 7 p.m. at Expression College for Digital Arts, 6601 Shellmound Street, Emeryville. ebmug.org 

Guided Meditation with Patricia Ellesberg on “Mystery Made Manifest” works by Susan Duhan Felix at noon at the Badè Museum, in the Hollbrook Building at the Pacific School of Religion located at 1798 Scenic. 848-0528. 

“The Heart of Islam: Essentials of Islamic Religion and Spirituality” A four week introductory course, open to the general public, Thurs. nights at 7 p.m. at Islamic Cultural Center of Northern California, 1433 Madison St., Oakland. Cost is $25 for all classes. To register call 832-7600. www.iccnc.org 

Circle of Concern Vigil meets on West Lawn of UC campus across from Addison and Oxford, Thurs. at noon and Sun. at 1 p.m. to oppose UC weapons labs contracts. 848-8055. 

Fitness Class for 55+ at 9:15 a.m. at Jewish Community Center, 1414 Walnut St. 848-0237. 

Buddhist Class on Shikan Meditation at 7 p.m. at Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalists, Cedar at Bonita, through May 28. http://caltendai.org 

FRIDAY, MAY 15 

Tommie Smith on “The 1968 Olympics” including a film “Return to Mexico City” at 9:30 a.m. at the Little Theater, Berkeley High School, 1980 Allston Way. 812-0121, 776-7451. 

City Commons Club Noon Luncheon with Prof. Richard A. Muller “Physics for Future Presidents” Luncheon at 11:45 a.m. for $15, speech at 12:30 p.m., at the Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant St. For information and reservations call 527-2173. www.citycommonsclub.org 

Volunteer at Berkeley Youth Alternative Gardens Tasks may include weeding, bed preparation, sowing, transplanting, composting and harvesting, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Berkeley Youth Alternatives Garden, Bancroft Way, between Bonar and West St. 647-0709. www.byaonline.org 

“Ecocities: An Environmentally Conscious Approach to Architecture” with Kirstin Miller on how ecocities can reverse sprawl development and create sustainable cities that promote walking, cycling and public transit, from noon to 1 p.m. at AIA East Bay Chapter Office, 1405 Clay St., Oakland. RSVP by email. events@aiaeb.org 

Circle Dancing, simple folk dancing with instruction at 7:30 p.m. at Finnish Brotherhood Hall, 1970 Chestnut St at University. Donation of $5 requested. 528-4253. www.circledancing.com 

Why Be Jewish? at 6:15 p.m. at Jewish Gateways, 409 Liberty Street, El Cerrito. Cost is $7. RSVP required. 559-8140 . www.jewishgateways.org 

Berkeley Women in Black weekly vigil from noon to 1 p.m. at Bancroft and Telegraph. Our focus is human rights in Palestine. 548-6310. 

Three Beats for Nothing Mostly ancient part music for fun and practice meets every Fri. at 10 a.m. at the North Berkeley Senior Center, Hearst at MLK. 655-8863. asiecker@sbcglobal 

Berkeley Chess Club meets every Fri. at 7 p.m. at the Hillside School, 1581 Le Roy Ave. 843-0150. 

SATURDAY, MAY 16 

Himalayan Fair A market bazaar of the great mountain cultures of the Himalayas with food, arts and crafts and traditional music Sat from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sun. from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Live Oak Park, 1301 Shattuck Ave. Suggested donation $5. www.himalayanfair.net  

Berkeley Garden Club Plant Sale with CA natives, succulents, perennials and other wonderful plants locally grown at bargain prices, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 547 Grizzly Peak Blvd., top of Euclid. 524-7296. 

24th Bay Area Storytelling Festival Sat. and Sun. from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. in Kennedy Grove Recreation Area, featuring Jay O’Callahan, Antionio Rocha, Gayle Ross, Judith Black and Doug Elliott. Cost is $40-$80. registration required. 869-4969. www.bayareastorytelling.org 

Sudden Oak Death Blitz Training meeting for people wanting to take part in the documentation of SOD affected trees, from 10 a.m. to noon at Regional Park Botanic Garden, Wildcat Canyon Rd at S. Park Drive, Tilden Park. Sampling will continue on Sat. afternoon and Sun. Bring GPS units if you have them. 847-5482. 

Teens Touch the Earth Earn community service credit while working with others who care about the environment, for ages 13-19 from 9 a.m. to noon at Point Pinole Regional Shoreline. Registration required. 1-888-EBPARKS. 

“Recycle, Restyle, Remake Your Clothes” A class on how to economize and stretch your wardrobe by remaking items that are already in your closet. Learn how old sweaters can be transformed into hats and arm warmers, sleeves can be shortened or removed, dresses can be turned into skirts. Bring those pieces still hanging in your closet that haven't been worn in ages and restyle them into something new. From 4 to 7 p.m. at Waterside Workshops, 84 Bolivar Drive, at Berkeley's Aquatic Park. Cos tis $25. 644-2577. www.watersideworkshops.org 

TransForm’s 12th Annual Summit The Summit will focus on the critical role of transportation and land use in the health of our economy, pocketbooks, and planet, and highlight solutions, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Laney College, 900 Fallon St. at 10th, Oakland. Cos tis $20. To register call 740-3150. transformca.org 

Berkeley Buddhist Temple Satsuki Bazaar and Arts Festival with Japanese foods, crafts, children's games, silent auction and performances by Anthony Brown, storyteller, Brenda Wong-Aoki, Destiny Arts Center's youth hip-hop group, Sat. from 4 to 9 p.m. and Sun. from noon to 7 p.m. at 2121 Channing Way. Free. 841-1356. www.berkeleysangha.org/ev/bazaar 

Martin Luther King Jr. Shoreline Work-day Enter the park from Swan Way and follow the road to the end parking lot. Meet at 10 a.m. near the wooden observation platform adjacent to Arrowhead Marsh. Sponsored by Golden Gate Audubon Society. 843-2222. www.goldengateaudubon.org 

Fundraiser for New Oakland Farmers’ Market with art gallery, workshops, live music and dancing from from 5 p.m. at Oakland Noodle Factory, 1255 26th St., Oakland. Donations $5-$15, or work-trade. www.phatbeetsproduce.org 

On Hidden Pond Discover the life in this secret pond with naturalist Meg Platt from 2 to 3 p.m. at Tilden Nature Area, Tilden Park. 544-3265. tnarea@ebparks.org 

Bicycle Safety Day Cyclists of all ages and levels can drop in anytime to test their skills in a variety of obstacle courses, learn about basic bike maintenance, discover local bike resources, and talk with a police officer about the rules of the road, from noon to 4 p.m. at the DMV Parking Lot, 6400 Manila Ave, El Cerrito, behind the El Cerrito City Hall. There will be a BMX Stunt Team performing at 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m.  

Walking Tour of Oakland City Center Meet at 10 a.m. in front Oakland City Hall at Frank Ogawa Plaza. Tour lasts 90 minutes. Reservations can be made by calling 238-3234. 

Children’s Community Center Silent Auction at 7 p.m. at Northbrae Community Church, 941 The Alameda. Tickets are $20-$40, sliding scale, at the door. www.cccpreschool.org 

California Writers Club with Janis Cooke Newman on “A Many-Sided Talent” (Talking About Writing) at 10 a.m. at Barnes & Noble Booksellers Event Loft, Jack London Square, 98 Broadway, Oakland. 272-0120. www.berkeleywritersclub.org 

Friends of the Albany Library Book Sale Sat and Sun. from 10 a.m .to 4 p.m. at the Albany Library and Community Center, 1247 Marin Ave., Albany. To volunteer to help at the sale, call the Library at 526-3720 ext. 5. 

“Innerscape” A Day of Art, Play and Transformation For adults from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at John F. Kennedy University, Berkeley Campus, 2956 San Pablo Ave., 2nd flr. Cost is $10, no one turned away for lack of funds. www.artplay.us/innerscape 

Free Sailboat Rides from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Cal Sailing Club, Berkeley Marina. Wear warm, waterproof clothing and bring a change of clothes in case you get wet. Children 5 and over welcome with parent or guardian. www.cal-sailing.org 

Studio One Art Center’s Community Day with movement and art projects in various media for children ages 4 though teens from 12:30 to 4 p.m. at 36545th street off Broadway, North Oakland. Suggested donation $5. 597-5027. 

Otis School “Spring Fling” Fundraising Event with auction, Italian food and wine, at 6:30 p.m. at JC Cellars, 55 4th St., Oakland. Tickets are $20-$25. 465-5900. 

Small Critter Adoption Day Check out pet rats, hamsters, guinea pigs and rabbits, from 1 to 4 p.m. at RabbitEARS, 377 Colusa Ave, Kensington. 525-6155. 

Cartoon Weekend at Playland Watch hundreds of cartoons, meet a famous animator, enter our drawing contest and children in costume get in half off. Sat. and Sun. from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 10979 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. Cost is $10-$15. 232-4264 ext. 25. www.playland-not-at-the-beach.org 

Beginning Internet Class “Health and Medical Information” at 10 a.m. at El Cerrito Library, 6510 Stockton Ave., El Cerrito. Free, but call to sign up 526-7512. 

Preschool Storytime, including crafts and finger plays at 11 a.m. at The Albany Library, 1247 Marin Ave., Albany. 526-3720 ext. 16. 

Shabbat Celebration for Young Children at 10:30 a.m. at Jewish Gateways, 409 Liberty St., El Cerrito. Free for first-times, RSVP required. 559-8140. www.jewishgateways.org 

Free Garden Tours at Regional Parks Botanic Garden Sat. and Sun. at 2 pm. Regional Parks Botanic Garden, Tilden Park. Call to confirm. 841-8732. www.nativeplants.org 

Lawn Bowling on the green at the corner of Acton St. and Bancroft Way every Wed. and Sat. at 10 a.m. for ages 12 and up. Wear flat soled shoes, no heels. Free lessons. 841-2174.  

Car Wash Benefit for Options Recovery Services of Berkeley, held every Sat. from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Lutheran Church, 1744 University Ave. 666-9552. 

SUNDAY, MAY 17 

Himalayan Fair A market bazaar of the great mountain cultures of the Himalayas with food, arts and crafts and traditional music from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Live Oak Park, 1301 Shattuck Ave. Suggested donation $5. www.himalayanfair.net  

Heritage Rose Show Celebration of Old Roses with a large display of roses, plus rosey items for sale including plants, jewelry, crafts, books, stationery and food, from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at El Cerrito Community Center, 7007 Moeser Lane, El Cerrito. Free.  

Little Farm Goat Hike Join a short hike with the goats as we explore the historic connections between humans and our ungulate friends at 11 a.m. at the Little Farm, Tilden Park. For ages 6 and up. Children , please bring your adults along. 544-3265. tnarea@ebparks.org 

Mend Those Fences Learn how to do traditional carpentry with hand-tools and our muscles to put up new fencing from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at Tilden Nature Area, Tilden Park. For ages 9 and up. 544-3265. tnarea@ebparks.org 

Free Hands-on Bicycle Clinic Learn how to repair a flat, from 11 a.m. to noon at REI, 1338 San Pablo Ave. Bring your bike and tools. 527-4140. 

Learn How to Repair Your Clothes A introductory class on simple hand and machine sewing techniques for patching jeans, replacing zippers, hems, buttons, and more from noon to 2 p.m. at Waterside Workshops, 84 Bolivar Drive, at Berkeley's Aquatic Park. Cost is $20, sliding scale. 644-2577. www.watersideworkshops.org 

The Institute of Urban Homesteading Open House Tour of garden, bees, rabbits and greywater features, and a bake and brew sale with homemade beer and soda and strawberry and raspberry shortcakes, from noon to 5 p.m. Please email for location. iuh@sparkybeegirl.com 

Family Explorations Day: Shadow Puppets from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Oakland Museum of California, 10th and Oak sts. Cost is $5-$8. www.museumca.org/tickets 

Oakland on Two Wheels A bike tour exploration of Oakland with docents from the Oakland Museum of California. Meet at 10 a.m. at the museum’s 10th St. entrance. www.museumca.org/tickets 

Bunny Maintenance 101 Everything you need to know about basic care of your bunny. Class includes a take-home first aid kit for bunnies. From 2 to 4 p.m. at RabbitEARS, 377 Colusa Ave, Kensington. 525-6155. 

Egyptology Lecture “Stairsteps to the Gods—Building the Great Pyramid at Giza” with Craig Smith, architectural engineer at 2:30 p.m. at Barrows Hall, Room 20, Barrow Lane and Bancroft Way, UC campus. 415-664-4767. 

“Bums Paradise” Screening of the film with dinner and raffle at 7:30 p.m. at Longhaul Infoshop, 3124 Shattuck Ave. at Woolsey. Cost is $10 at the door. 984-2316. 

East Bay Atheists with Dr. Eric Maisel on his new book, “The Atheist’s Way” at 1:30 p.m. at Berkeley Public Library, 3rd flr meeting room. eastbayatheists.org 

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